The Philippines is home to over 7,000 islands, each offering unique and unforgettable adventures. This 14-day itinerary takes you from Manila to El Nido, Coron, and Cebu, promising pristine beaches, stunning natural beauty, and a journey you won’t forget.
Here’s the perfect itinerary for 14 days in the Philippines:
Days 1-7: El Nido, Palawan – Dreamy Beaches and Lagoons
Start with a 90-minute flight from Manila to El Nido, located in the stunning Palawan archipelago. Known for its powdery beaches, towering limestone cliffs, palm forests, and hidden lagoons, El Nido is a must-visit. Once you land, a quick 15-minute tricycle ride (a local tuktuk) will take you to your accommodation. Here are our top recommendations for your stay.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring El Nido Town
After checking in, take the day to wander around El Nido’s charming village. You’ll find great restaurants, cozy massage parlors, and a beautiful view of the bay. Sip on a refreshing cocktail at one of the beachfront bars and enjoy a laid-back stroll through town.
Tip: Check out our guide on “7 Unique Hotspots and Experiences in El Nido.”
Days 2 & 3: Mopeds and Beach-Hopping
Getting around El Nido is easy with mopeds, available to rent on almost every corner for around €10/day. It’s the perfect way to explore the beautiful bays nearby.
Duli Beach: About an hour from El Nido, this beach is perfect for a chill day, offering golden sand, crystal-clear water, and some surfing opportunities. April visitors can also witness the magical release of baby sea turtles at the eco-friendly Duli Beach Resort.
El Nido Big Beach: If you’re seeking solitude, head to El Nido Big Beach. The road may be bumpy, but you’ll be rewarded with palm-lined shores and plenty of shaded spots to hang a hammock. Keep an eye out for locals selling fresh coconuts!
Marimegmeg Beach: A lively spot with a shallow bay, lots of beach bars, and even a zipline to a nearby island. Be sure to catch the sunset from one of the beachside restaurants.
Reading tip: El Nido: The Seven Most Beautiful Beaches and Lagoons
Days 4 & 5: Kayaking to Paradise
El Nido’s hidden gems are best explored by kayak. Paddle to Paradise Beach, just 2km from town, and enjoy a postcard-perfect bay with white sands. Feeling adventurous? Paddle further to Cadlao Lagoon, about 8km from El Nido, for a true escape to paradise. Don’t forget to check out Papaya Beach along the way!
Tip: Check out our guide on the best kayaking spots in El Nido.
Day 6: Island Hopping
El Nido is famous for its island-hopping tours (A, B, C, and D), each offering unique sights.
Tour A is a favorite, taking you to the breathtaking Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon, all surrounded by towering rock formations. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Day 7: Travel to Coron
Take a ferry or quick flight from El Nido to Coron. The fast ferry takes around 5 hours, and once in Coron, another tricycle ride will get you to your hotel. Explore the town and indulge in some local food, or unwind at the Maquinit Hot Springs, known for its natural beauty and stunning sunset views.
Days 8-11: Coron, Palawan – Snorkeling and Island Hopping
Days 8 & 9: Mopeds, Snorkeling, and Secluded Beaches
Coron’s rugged beauty is best explored on a moped, which you can rent just like in El Nido. Head north to visit some of Coron’s quieter beaches or drive to Siete Pecados Marine Park for a day of snorkeling among vibrant corals and colorful fish.
Marcilla Sandbar Beach is another great option, with shallow waters and golden sand, about 45 minutes from Coron.
Day 10: Coron’s Famous Island-Hopping Tour
A must-do in Coron is the island-hopping tour, which takes you to:
Kayangan Lake, famed for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.
Twin Lagoons, two gorgeous lagoons that meet at high tide.
Banul Beach, a peaceful spot perfect for a picnic and some relaxation.
Tip: Which Tour to Book in Coron, Palawan? A Guide to the Best Options
Day 11: Flight to Cebu
Next, fly to Cebu, one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines. With a blend of city life, cultural sites, and natural beauty, Cebu offers the perfect last leg of your trip.
Days 12-14: Cebu – Culture and Adventure
Day 12: Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
Get your adrenaline pumping with an epic canyoneering experience at Kawasan Falls. With a guide, you’ll jump, swim, and wade through stunning turquoise waters, ending at the majestic falls where you can take a refreshing dip.
Day 13: Explore Cebu City & Tops Lookout
Spend your final day exploring Cebu City, visiting historic sites like Basilica del Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross, relics of the Philippines’ Spanish colonial past. In the evening, head up to Tops Lookout for a panoramic view of the city and coastline, especially stunning at sunset.
Day 14: Return to Manila
After two weeks of unforgettable adventures, fly back to Manila and head home, with memories of El Nido, Coron, and Cebu etched in your heart. Who knows? You might already be planning your next trip to explore even more of the Philippines’ beautiful islands!
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